The Department of Transportation and Communications (DOTC) awarded the maintenance contracts for the Metro Rail Transit Line 3 (MRT-3) worth P61.48 million to four companies.

According to the DOTC, the four new MRT-3 are Jorgman-Korail-Erin Marty Joint Venture, Global Epcom Services, Inc., Trilink Technologies and Future Logic Corp.

The four groups will specifically improve the rail tracks and permanent ways, buildings and facilities, communication systems, and ticketing or the current automated fare collection system.

In a statement, the DOTC said: “These maintenance contracts cover a 6-month period beginning on July 5 this year, and are intended to fulfill the MRT-3’s daily operating requirements until the longer-term maintenance provider is procured.

The four maintenance providers were procured via a multi-disciplinary approach, through which the DOTC is engaging sub-contractors directly for the maintenance works. This is expected to improve the efficiency of executing such works.

The three other disciplines are currently still being procured. These are the Rolling Stocks and Depot Equipment, Power Supply and Overhead Catenary System, and Conveyance Systems.

The DOTC is now seeking the approval of the Government Procurement Policy Board (GPPB) to pursue an alternative mode of procurement for the three-year maintenance deal.